The maker of Tiki Torches has denounced the use of their products by white nationalists in Charlottesville last weekend at a rally.
The white nationalist protesters used garden torches designed to deter mosquitoes and provide light in back gardens as they marched through the University of Virginia campus on Friday night.
The march was a warm-up for a wider “Unite the Right” event on Saturday which drew protesters against the planned removal of a confederate statue of General Robert E Lee, and counter-protesters who also took to the streets.
(Konoplytska/Getty Images/PA)
One company particularly associated with this type of lighting, Tiki Brand Products, felt the use of their products by the white nationalist marchers needed to be addressed.
TIKI Brand is not associated in any way with the events that took place in Charlottesville and are deeply saddened and…
Posted by TIKI Brand Products on Saturday, August 12, 2017
In a statement released on Facebook, the company stated:
“TIKI Brand is not associated in any way with the events that took place in Charlottesville and are deeply saddened and disappointed.
“We do not support their message or the use of our products in this way. Our products are designed to enhance backyard gatherings and to help family and friends connect with each other at home in their yard.”
Some have compared the company’s words on the Charlottesville protests to President Donald Trump’s.
Bravo to @tikibrand condemning the vile use of their beautiful torches. Silence is acceptance. I will support this brand for being loud.
— Maysoon Zayid (@maysoonzayid) August 13, 2017
That moment when TIKI Brand Products make a stronger statement against neo-nazis than the President of the United States…
— Lindsey Zolna 🏳️🌈 (@Linds_Zolna) August 14, 2017
Trump condemned what he called an “egregious display of hatred, bigotry and violence on many sides”, but did not call out white supremacists specifically.
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